As part of its economic transformation program to help drive Malaysia’s film and digital content development across the region, the Malaysian Government has implemented broad, new strategic plans in the animation, feature film, television and visual effects sectors.

The announcement, which includes the recent news of the introduction of a Film in Malaysia Production Incentive Rebate, was made at the Cannes Film Festival and Marche du Film 2012 by The National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS).

In addition, the director general of FINAS, Mohd Naguib Razak, was recently appointed by the Malaysian Ministry of Information, Communications and Culture to lead FINAS in the promotion, development and facilitation of film productions in Malaysia for domestic and international growth.

Under Razak’s watch, Malaysia has increased its number of cinemas to 108 (651 screens) from 68 cinemas (287 screens) five years ago.

And, as part of the Film in Malaysia Production Incentive Rebate, a Film in Malaysia Office (FIMO) will launch and be ready to receive and process advance applications, during pre-production, from October 1, 2012 with the rebate disbursement set to commence from February 1, 2013.

Also announced by FINAS is the new International Film Festival of Malaysia (IFFM) to be held November 10-18, 2012 in Kuala Lumpur, and held in conjunction with the Kuala Lumpur Content and Communications International Market (KLCCIM), set to take place in Putra World Trade Center in Kuala Lumpur, November 15-18, 2012.

KLCCIM will showcase films, TV programs, animations, games, communications and mobile content, music, licensing and merchandizing, visual arts, fashion, crafts, performing arts and feature a film support and location market.